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Green Goblin

Green Goblin is the alias of multiple Marvel Comics supervillains, most notably Norman Osborn.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Green Goblin is the alias of multiple Marvel Comics supervillains, most notably Norman Osborn. Created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, the character is a principal archenemy of Spider-Man and is known for Halloween-themed weapons and a flying Goblin Glider.

Publication history

Green Goblin first appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man #14 and was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. The character became one of the most enduring villains in Spider-Man comics.

Character identity

The Green Goblin name has been used by multiple characters, but Norman Osborn is the most prominent version. In some continuities, Harry Osborn and Phil Urich have also used the alias.

Powers and equipment

Green Goblin is usually depicted as a criminal mastermind who relies on enhanced physical abilities, advanced technology, and fear tactics. Signature gear includes Pumpkin Bombs, razor bat-shaped weapons, and a Goblin Glider.

Role in Spider-Man stories

Green Goblin is commonly shown as one of Spider-Man's greatest enemies and a recurring threat to New York City. The character is often tied to the Osborn family and Oscorp-related storylines.

Key facts

  • Green Goblin is an alias used by several fictional supervillains in Marvel Comics.
  • The first and best-known Green Goblin is Norman Osborn.
  • The character debuted in The Amazing Spider-Man #14 in 1964.
  • Green Goblin is one of Spider-Man's principal archenemies.
  • The character is typically portrayed as using pumpkin bombs and a flying Goblin Glider.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Green Goblin?
Green Goblin is a Marvel Comics supervillain alias used by multiple characters, most famously Norman Osborn.
Who created Green Goblin?
The character was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.
When did Green Goblin first appear?
Green Goblin first appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man #14 in July 1964.
What is Green Goblin known for?
The character is known for being a Spider-Man archenemy and for using Pumpkin Bombs and a Goblin Glider.
Is Green Goblin always Norman Osborn?
No. Norman Osborn is the best-known Green Goblin, but other characters have also used the name.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Goblin
    Supports: Basic identification, creators, first appearance, Norman Osborn as best-known incarnation, and typical equipment.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Goblin_in_other_media
    Supports: Green Goblin as a recurring Marvel supervillain alias and use by multiple characters such as Norman Osborn and Harry Osborn.
  3. Marvel — https://www.marvel.com/characters/green-goblin-norman-osborn/in-comics
    Supports: Norman Osborn's Green Goblin identity and powers/abilities associated with the Goblin Formula.